Rallying For Support For New Multi-Million Dollar Courthouse (VIDEO)

DECATUR, Ind. (21Alive) - Officials in Adams County are rallying for support to build a new multi-million dollar courthouse.

The plans have been drafted, but in order to move forward with the project the county council and commissioners need approval from the residents. Next year a referendum will be placed on the primary ballot.

In the meantime, the county commissioners and county council are holding town hall meetings to explain the details of the project, and the reason why they need a new building.

The new building will cost between $13 and $15 million.

Right now, the old courthouse houses the circuit court. The superior court was moved across the street because of a lack of space.

"It's absolutely the best thing to try and have both of your courts in the same building. From a security standpoint, which the state is really wanting us to address, it doesn't make a whole lot of sense to try to secure two different locations. It's much more expensive, and it just doesn't lend itself to much efficiency. So we're really trying to get them back together," said Mark Burry, Adams County Attorney.

The plan is to have the old historic courthouse be used as office space for several county departments. The commissioners say it would be too costly to renovate the old courthouse. They also say the needed expansion would take away the green space around the building.

What are your thoughts CLICK HERE to leave us a "QUESTION OF THE DAY” comment.

Want to be in the know for the next weather event, the next school closing or the next big breaking news story?

TextCaster alerts from 21Alive.com are your defining source for instant information delivered right to your cell phone and email. It's free, easy and instant. Sign-Up Now!Powered by Summit City Chevrolet